China to advance development of new-type power grids

BEIJING, Sept. 2 (Xinhua) -- China will advance the high-quality development of its new-type power grids during the 2026-2030 period to ensure the safe and stable operation of the country's power system, the National Energy Administration (NEA) said Wednesday.

The new-type power grid, as defined by the NEA, encompasses both the construction of a backbone grid and the coordinated development of power grids at all levels, with its operation powered by information technology. Its development is a key step in China's efforts to build robust, intelligent and digitalized power grids.

The NEA said that during the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), China's power demand is expected to grow at an average annual rate of around 5 percent, and the demand for high-quality green power from high-end industries will grow steadily, placing higher requirements on the construction of new-type power grids.

To meet the growing demand, efforts should be made to strengthen power infrastructure, said Wang Hongzhi, head of the NEA. Wang called for measures to enhance the safety and stability of the country's large power grids, fully leverage distribution networks as public platforms, and promote flexible and diverse interactions within smart microgrids.

Wang also stressed innovation-driven development, calling for accelerated research and development of new technologies, including artificial intelligence and intelligent grid management.

The construction of a new-type power grid links upstream projects, such as renewable energy generation, with downstream industrial and commercial sectors as well as households, Wang said, noting that its broad reach and large scale make it a strong driver of investment.

Approvals for major power grid projects, such as power transmission corridors, should be accelerated, Wang said. He added that grid companies should fully leverage these types of projects to spur investment, while local energy authorities should expedite the implementation of related supporting measures.

"The NEA will encourage private enterprises nationwide to actively invest in the development of new-type power grids and benefit from the opportunities they create," he said.

New-type power grids are part of China's "six networks" initiative, which aims to boost domestic demand and support steady economic growth.

The initiative covers six types of networks: water networks, new-type power grids, computing power networks, next-generation communication networks, urban underground pipeline networks and logistics networks. Enditem